Functions of the Kidney

  • Elimination of metabolic wastes
  • Blood pressure regulation
  • Erythrocyte production – erythropoietin (stimulates red cell production)
  • Vitamin D activation
  • Prostaglandin synthesis
  • Acid – Base balance (excretes alkaline salts)
  • Fluid balance
  • Electrolyte balance
At least once a day, three days a week, do take watermelon seed tea as a part of the water.  This would be prepared by pouring a pint of boiling water over a tablespoonful of watermelon seed (ground or cut) and allowing it to steep.  Let it cool, then strain and drink.  This will clarify those conditions that cause reactions in the kidneys and bladder, for, the lack of eliminations and the slowing up of the circulation causes a greater quantity of drosses to be held in the system, and these need to be eliminated from the body.
More will be eliminated through using this stimuli for the kidney activity than in most any way.

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Joe Pye Weed is a North American native perennial herb found in moist woods and meadows from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas.
Cultivate from seed or root separation, with partial shade to full sun in
rich alkaline soil. Growing to a height of about 12 ft. it makes a handsome addition to any garden or as a privacy border. The sturdy, hollow, purple stems are covered with whorls of 4 to 8 dark green, lance shaped, and serrated  leaves, up to 1 foot long. Atop each stem is a rose pink to whitish domed cluster of flowers, about 1 foot in diameter, blooming in August and September. The root is woody, thick and purplish brown with cream colored flesh. Gather leaves anytime and entire plant in full bloom. Dig roots after frost.

Properties
The entire plant is used as an alternative medicine with the roots being the strongest part. Crushed leaves have an apple scent and are dried then burned to repel flies. Infuse dried root and flowers for a diuretic tea
to relieve kidney and urinary problems. Tea is used to induce sweating and break a high fever. Also useful for rheumatism, gravel (gallstones), and dropsy (fluid retention).
Root tea: To 1 pint boiling water add 1 oz. dried rootstock  steep for 30
min. take in ½ cup doses 4 or 5 times a day.

Flower tea: To 1 cup boiling water add 1 tsp. dried flowers steep for 10
min. drink 1 to 3 cups a day.